Hello friends. My name is Topher and I'm a 41 year old Ataxian (SCA2) from Chicago, Illinois.

I feel that our condition is so rare, and our lives have been altered to such a devastating level, that we have a very unique bond with one another. We should exploit this fact, and bring ourselves together. We Ataxians are all brothers and sisters, both in mind, and in spirit. I truly believe this.

I think support groups are truly a Godsend. I head up my own support group here in the city. I also attend the other Chicago Ataxia Support Group get together in the suburbs without fail, that meets on opposing months, and I totally love it. These are some of the best people on the planet, and I have the best time there. You definitely feel a strong connection with people who have the same illness you do. My wish and my desire is to make it more accessible for all Ataxians in this country, and the world, to share in my joy and the camaraderie I've developed over the years.

I am interested in the sincere innermost thoughts and feelings of my fellow Ataxians. I tend to keep my personal feelings to myself usually, because the majority of my ablebodied friends and relatives can only sympathize with my plight, but my brothers and sisters with this illness can truly empathize.

I want to read your story, your concerns, your thoughts, your fears, etc. No topic is out of bounds. I encourage you to open up, and leave your most honest thoughts and feelings on the page.